Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha
Individual Rules, Standing Orders & Policies
Limits & Logistics
Document Limits
Courtesy Copies
Filings (All filings)
Required
Filings (Motion For Attorney Fees)
Required
Filings
Not Required
Filings (Motion, Brief, Opposition, Reply, Sur Reply, Exhibits, Notice Of Motion, Letter, Proposed Order, Pretrial Order, Jury Instructions, Sentencing Memorandum, Default Judgment, Proposed Findings Conclusions, Certificate, Notice Of Appearance, Chambers Copy, Discovery Motion, Case Dispositive Motion)
Required
Filings (Attorney Fee Motion)
Required
Adjournments
Must Include
- 1Proposed Order
- 2Reason For Request
- 3Number Of Previous Requests
- 4Previous Requests Granted Or Denied
- 5Original Date
- 6Adversary Position
- 7Proposed New Dates
- 8Affects Other Dates
- 9Emergency Nature
Must Include
- 1Reason For Request
- 2Original Date
- 3Number Of Previous Requests
- 4Previous Requests Granted Or Denied
- 5Adversary Position
- 6Proposed New Dates
- 7Proposed Rescheduled Date
Must Include
- 1Proposed New Dates
- 2Adversary Position
Communication
Chambers
Chambers
Letter Ecf
Chambers
Chambers
Phone
Clerk
Detailed Drafting Rules
Communications with chambers are governed by specific rules.
I. Communications with Chambers ............................................................... 18
Direct to: Chambers
Memoranda limited to 7,000 words (computer-generated) or 25 pages (handwritten/typewriter).
Memoranda of points and authorities shall not exceed 7,000 words. See Local Rule 11-6.1. A handwritten brief or a brief prepared using a typewriter may not exceed 25 pages, excluding the caption (if on a separate cover page), the table of contents, the table of authorities, the signature block, and any indices and exhibits.
Reply briefs limited to 4,200 words or 15 pages (handwritten/typewriter).
Replies shall not exceed 4,200 words or fifteen (15) pages for handwritten briefs and briefs prepared using a typewriter.
Font requirements: Times New Roman 14pt or Courier 12pt; footnotes same size as body.
Pursuant to Local Rule 11-3.1.1, either a proportionally spaced or monospaced face may be used. Typeface shall comply with Local Rule 11-3.1.1. Times New Roman font must be no less than fourteen (14) point, and Courier font must be no less than twelve (12) point. Footnotes shall be in the same font and the same size as the body of the memorandum.
All documents must be converted to .pdf format for e-filing.
Counsel shall adhere to Local Rule 5-4.3 with respect to the conversion of all documents to .pdf so that when a document is e-filed, it is in the proper size, is
Bluebook style required for all citations with specific references.
Bluebook style is required. Statutory references must identify with specificity the sections and subsections referenced. Citations to treatises, manuals, and other materials should include the volume, section, and pages being referenced. Citations to prior filings in the same action shall include the docket entry number, section, and pages referenced.
Document Type
Brief
Junior lawyers (under 5 years) may increase likelihood of oral argument if noted in bold/underline.
The parties’ lead counsel are encouraged to permit junior or less experienced litigators to participate in court proceedings, including to argue motions and to examine witnesses at trial. The court is more likely to hear oral argument if a party notes in its moving or opposing papers, in bold and underlined font, that a litigator who graduated from law school within the last five (5) years, or otherwise has had minimal oral advocacy experience, will conduct the argument.
Junior Lawyer Opportunity
IncentiveThe Court encourages the participation of junior attorneys in all court proceedings, including oral argument and trial examination.
Multiple summary judgment motions or exceeding page/word limits requires leave of court with good cause showing.
evade the word or page limitations for briefs by filing multiple motions. If a party believes good cause exists for more than one summary judgment motion or to increase word or page limits, the party shall seek leave by noticed motion setting forth a detailed showing of good cause. Failure to do so will result in the striking of the motion(s).
Filing Strategy
Bundling Policy
Multiple summary judgment motions or exceeding page/word limits requires leave of court with good cause showing.
Contact chambers only for appropriate matters; do not inquire about case status.
Counsel must not attempt to contact the court or chambers staff by email, telephone, or ex parte means. For appropriate matters only, counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk via chambers email address at twyla_freeman@cacd.uscourts.gov, or by telephone at (213) 894-5686. Counsel must not contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk regarding the status of any matter before the court.
Direct to: Chambers
- Status Inquiries
Counsel must use lectern and prepare visual aids in advance.
Counsel must use the lectern. Counsel should not consume jury time by writing out words and drawing charts or diagrams. All such aids must be prepared in advance.
Document Type
Trial Proceeding
Times New Roman 14pt or Courier 12pt required; footnotes same size as body text.
Pursuant to Local Civil Rule 11-3.1.1, either a proportionally spaced or monospaced face may be used. Typeface shall comply with Local Civil Rule 11- 3.1.1. Times New Roman font must be no less than fourteen (14) point, and Courier font must be no less than twelve (12) point. Footnotes shall be in the same font and the same size as the text in the body of the document.
Support/opposition memoranda limited to 7,000 words; replies limited to 4,200 words or 15 pages (handwritten/typewriter).
Memoranda of points and authorities in support of or in opposition to motions (besides motions in limine) shall not exceed 7,000 words. See Local Rule 11-6.1. A handwritten brief or a brief prepared using a typewriter may not exceed 25 pages, including the table of contents, table of authorities, the signature block, and any indices and exhibits. All submitted briefs must be accompanied by a Certificate of Compliance as set forth in Local Civil Rule 11-6.2. Replies shall not exceed 4,200 words or fifteen (15) pages for handwritten briefs and briefs prepared using a typewriter.
Communications with chambers are permitted.
Communications with Chambers ............................................................... 18
Direct to: Chambers
- Status Inquiries
Calendar conflicts with senior judges must be reported to chambers email within 3 business days; propose new date by stipulation and order.
If any counsel discovers a calendar conflict with a scheduled appearance in a court of a more senior district judge, counsel must inform opposing counsel and the Courtroom Deputy Clerk via chambers email address at twyla_freeman@cacd.uscourts.gov as soon as possible and not later than three (3) business days before the scheduled appearance. Counsel should attempt to agree on a new date to accommodate the calendar conflict. Counsel must propose a new date by Stipulation and [Proposed] Order.
Direct to: Chambers
- Advance Notice Required3_business_days
- Hoursbusiness_hours
- Status Inquiries
All discovery matters referred to Magistrate Judge; include “DISCOVERY MATTER” in caption for proper routing.
All discovery matters are hereby referred to the assigned Magistrate Judge, who will hear all discovery disputes. The Magistrate Judge’s initials follow the district judge’s initials next to the action number. All discovery-related documents must include the words “DISCOVERY MATTER” in the caption to ensure proper routing.
Document Type
Discovery Document
Motions heard Fridays at 1:30 PM; no pre-clearance needed except for summary judgment, TRO, or preliminary injunctions.
The court hears motions in civil actions on Fridays, beginning at 1:30 p.m. It is not necessary to clear a hearing date with the Courtroom Deputy Clerk before filing a motion, except for motions for summary judgment, temporary restraining orders, or preliminary injunctions.
Direct to: Chambers
- Hours9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Memoranda limited to 7,000 words or 25 pages for handwritten/typewriter briefs.
Memoranda of points and authorities shall not exceed 7,000 words. See Local Rule 11-6.1. A handwritten brief or a brief prepared using a typewriter may not exceed 25 pages, excluding the caption (if on a separate cover page), the table of contents, the table of authorities, the signature block, and any indices and exhibits.
Replies limited to 4,200 words or 15 pages for handwritten/typewriter briefs.
Replies shall not exceed 4,200 words or fifteen (15) pages for handwritten briefs and briefs prepared using a typewriter.
Times New Roman minimum 14pt, Courier minimum 12pt.
Pursuant to Local Rule 11-3.1.1, either a proportionally spaced or monospaced face may be used. Typeface shall comply with Local Rule 11-3.1.1. Times New Roman font must be no less than fourteen (14) point, and Courier font must be no less than twelve (12) point.
Footnotes must match body font and size.
Footnotes shall be in the same font and the same size as the body of the memorandum.
All documents must be converted to .pdf for e-filing.
Counsel shall adhere to Local Rule 5-4.3 with respect to the conversion of all documents to .pdf so that when a document is e-filed, it is in the proper size, is
Junior lawyers (under 5 years experience) may increase likelihood of oral argument if noted in bold/underline.
The parties’ lead counsel are encouraged to permit junior or less experienced litigators to participate in court proceedings, including to argue motions and to examine witnesses at trial. The court is more likely to hear oral argument if a party notes in its moving or opposing papers, in bold and underlined font, that a litigator who graduated from law school within the last five (5) years, or otherwise has had minimal oral advocacy experience, will conduct the argument.
Junior Lawyer Opportunity
IncentiveThe Court encourages the participation of junior attorneys in all court proceedings, including oral argument and trial examination.
Multiple summary judgment motions or exceeding page/word limits require leave of court with good cause showing.
If a party believes good cause exists for more than one summary judgment motion or to increase word or page limits, the party shall seek leave by noticed motion setting forth a detailed showing of good cause. Failure to do so will result in the striking of the motion(s).
Do not contact chambers about case status.
Counsel must not contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk regarding the status of any matter before the court.
Direct to: Chambers
In-person attendance required for all hearings/trials; remote appearances for status conferences only with 3-day advance notice and undue hardship showing.
The court requires in-person attendance for all hearings and trials, unless otherwise instructed by the court. The court may permit appearances by telephone or video conference for status conferences upon a showing that a personal appearance will cause undue hardship. If you wish to appear by telephone or video conference, you must: 1. email the Courtroom Deputy Clerk and copy opposing counsel at least three (3) court days in advance of the scheduled appearance and provide a detailed statement of undue hardship; 2. use a landline to call into the bridge line provided by the Courtroom Deputy Clerk or use a hardline internet connection to connect to the Zoom link for the court; and 3. be available and ready to call in for at least fifteen (15) minutes before the time of the scheduled hearing.
Direct to: Chambers
- Advance Notice Required3 court days
- Hours9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Status Inquiries
Ex parte applications considered on papers only; hearing only if court deems necessary; for extraordinary relief only.
The court considers ex parte applications on the papers and does not usually set these matters for hearing. The parties will be notified if the court deems a hearing necessary. Ex parte applications are solely for extraordinary relief and should be used with discretion. Sanctions may be imposed for misuse of ex parte applications.
Letter via ECF
Direct to: Chambers
- Advance Notice Requiredimmediate
- Hours9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Status Inquiries
Contact chambers only via specified email or phone for appropriate matters.
Counsel must not attempt to contact the court or chambers staff by email, telephone, or ex parte means. For appropriate matters only, counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk via chambers email address at twyla_freeman@cacd.uscourts.gov, or by telephone at (213) 894-5686.
Direct to: Chambers
- Advance Notice Requiredfor appropriate matters only
- Status Inquiries
Chambers email (twyla_freeman@cacd.uscourts.gov) must be used to notify of calendar conflicts at least 3 business days in advance.
If any counsel discovers a calendar conflict with a scheduled appearance in a court of a more senior district judge, counsel must inform opposing counsel and the Courtroom Deputy Clerk via chambers email address at twyla_freeman@cacd.uscourts.gov as soon as possible and not later than three (3) business days before the scheduled appearance.
Direct to: Chambers
- Advance Notice Requiredthree (3) business days before the scheduled appearance
Memoranda limited to 7,000 words; handwritten/typewriter briefs limited to 25 pages with specific exclusions.
Memoranda of points and authorities shall not exceed 7,000 words. See Local Rule 11-6.1. A handwritten brief or a brief prepared using a typewriter may not exceed 25 pages, excluding the caption (if on a separate cover page), the table of contents, the table of authorities, the signature block, and any indices and exhibits.
Reply briefs limited to 4,200 words or 15 pages for handwritten/typewriter formats.
Replies shall not exceed 4,200 words or fifteen (15) pages for handwritten briefs and briefs prepared using a typewriter.
Times New Roman minimum 14pt, Courier minimum 12pt; footnotes must match body font and size.
Times New Roman font must be no less than fourteen (14) point, and Courier font must be no less than twelve (12) point. Footnotes shall be in the same font and the same size as the body of the memorandum.
Junior lawyers (graduated within 5 years or with minimal oral advocacy experience) increase likelihood of oral argument if noted in bold and underlined font.
The parties' lead counsel are encouraged to permit junior or less experienced litigators to participate in court proceedings, including to argue motions and to examine witnesses at trial. The court is more likely to hear oral argument if a party notes in its moving or opposing papers, in bold and underlined font, that a litigator who graduated from law school within the last five (5) years, or otherwise has had minimal oral advocacy experience, will conduct the argument.
Junior Lawyer Opportunity
IncentiveThe Court encourages the participation of junior attorneys in all court proceedings, including oral argument and trial examination.
In-person attendance required for hearings and trials; telephone/video only for status conferences with undue hardship showing.
The court requires in-person attendance for all hearings and trials, unless otherwise instructed by the court. The court may permit appearances by telephone or video conference for status conferences upon a showing that a personal appearance will cause undue hardship.
Direct to: Chambers
Remote appearance requests must be emailed to Courtroom Deputy Clerk with opposing counsel copied at least 3 court days in advance with undue hardship statement.
If you wish to appear by telephone or video conference, you must: 1. email the Courtroom Deputy Clerk and copy opposing counsel at least three (3) court days in advance of the scheduled appearance and provide a detailed statement of undue hardship;
Direct to: Chambers
- Advance Notice Requiredthree (3) court days
Counsel may not contact judge or chambers staff directly; contact Courtroom Deputy Clerk via email or phone only for appropriate matters, not for status inquiries.
Counsel must not attempt to contact the court or chambers staff by email, telephone, or ex parte means. For appropriate matters only, counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk via chambers email address at twyla_freeman@cacd.uscourts.gov, or by telephone at (213) 894-5686. Counsel must not contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk regarding the status of any matter before the court. Counsel must include on all papers his or her email address, telephone number, and facsimile number to facilitate communication with the Courtroom Deputy Clerk.
Direct to: Clerk
- Status Inquiries
Phone contact with Courtroom Deputy Clerk permitted for appropriate matters only; status inquiries prohibited.
Counsel must not attempt to contact the court or chambers staff by email, telephone, or ex parte means. For appropriate matters only, counsel may contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk via chambers email address at twyla_freeman@cacd.uscourts.gov, or by telephone at (213) 894-5686. Counsel must not contact the Courtroom Deputy Clerk regarding the status of any matter before the court.
Phone
Direct to: Clerk
- Status Inquiries
Motions in limine and oppositions limited to 2,800 words or 10 pages (handwritten/typewriter).
Motions in limine and oppositions must not exceed 2,800 words in length, or ten (10) pages for handwritten briefs and briefs prepared using a typewriter.
Counsel must inform Courtroom Deputy Clerk of exhibit agreements and exhibits admitted without motion.
Counsel must inform the Courtroom Deputy Clerk of any agreements reached regarding any proposed exhibits, as well as those exhibits that may be received into evidence without a motion to admit.
Direct to: Chambers
- Status Inquiries
For deposition impeachment with follow-up questions, witness reads silently and counsel must have extra copies available.
If counsel wish to ask the witness further questions on the subject matter, the deposition shall be placed in front of the witness and the witness told to read the relevant pages and lines silently. Counsel may then either ask the witness further questions on the matter and thereafter read the quotations, or read the quotations and thereafter ask further questions. Counsel should have available for the court and the witness extra copies of the deposition transcript for this purpose.
Document Type
Deposition
Parties must notify court in advance of difficult legal issues and immediately notify Clerk of unexpected issues to minimize jury waiting time.
If any party anticipates that a difficult question of law or evidence will necessitate legal argument requiring research or briefing, that party must give the court advance notice. The parties must notify the Courtroom Deputy Clerk immediately of any unexpected legal issue that could not have been foreseen and addressed in advance. To the extent such issue needs to be addressed outside the jury's presence, the relevant party must inform the Courtroom Deputy Clerk before jurors are excused for the day to minimize the time jurors are kept waiting. The court expects all parties to work diligently to minimize delays and avoid keeping jurors waiting.
Direct to: Chambers
- Hours9:00 AM - 5:00 PM